Transfer Edge

Build Community. Discover Resources. Get a Head Start.

Student Life

Transfer Edge supports students in building a vibrant and multifaceted living and learning community. Through weekly social events, adventure opportunities, and engaging workshops, the program cultivates an enriching and inclusive environment that enhances the college experience.

Opportunities to meet and mingle include:

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Kickoff Event

Jumpstart your journey as a UC Santa Barbara student at the Transfer Edge welcome event. Meet your peers and peer mentors and foster connections through games, food, and music. Immerse yourself in the Edge experience and get energized to succeed in your courses! 

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Fireside Chats

Join in on authentic conversations about the transfer experience with peers and alumni. Gain insight into various paths to success, and ways to leverage experiences and personal attributes for academic and professional success. Engage in the open dialogue to cater the discussion to your unique interests. 

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Gaucho Guides

This series features presentations from campus leaders that inform you about student resources and opportunities that will help you make the most out of your academic experience. Take this chance to learn about the university and connect with faculty, staff, and graduate students!

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Socials

Join your peers to unwind from a busy week with game nights, ice skating, bowling, barbecues, beach volleyball, hiking, cooking lessons, and more! A broad selection of social events assist in community building and making lasting connections at UC Santa Barbara.

In collaboration with the Transfer Student Center, Transfer Edge will bring you opportunities to learn what UC Santa Barbara has to offer, including workshops focused on professional development and academic success. 

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Housing & Meals

Tailor your Transfer Edge experience by selecting housing options that will best allow you to recharge, refuel, and thrive.
We recognize that our students come from a variety of circumstances, strengthening the vibrant diversity of our living and learning community. You can participate in Transfer Edge whether commuting from a local residence, riding your bike from an Isla Vista sublet, or opting to live with other Edge students in the El Dorado Apartments.


Adjacent to campus and Isla Vista, these university-owned apartments are reserved for 3rd and 4th year UC Santa Barbara students and boast the following:

  • Fully furnished 1 and 2-bedroom apartments with all utilities included, plus 24-hour on-call maintenance and emergency staff
  • 5-minute bike ride from the center of campus 
  • Community pool, sundeck, BBQ area, and fitness center within the complex
  • Full kitchens equipped with cabinets, a sink with garbage disposal, a stove, oven, and a refrigerator 
  • Live-in staff members and residents assistants available for after-hours assistance and community building opportunities
  • Beautiful views of the mountains, with open spaces nearby for exploring and recharging in nature

Do you anticipate being too busy exploring UC Santa Barbara to cook?

The Tenaya Market & Eatery is conveniently located just down the street from the El Dorado Apartments, and offers a variety of local and sustainable food options for purchase. A number of restaurants and grocery stores are within walking or biking distance from the El Dorado apartments. Additionally, UC Santa Barbara students can ride the local MTD bus free of charge, and a bus stop is conveniently located just steps away from the apartments. 

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"During these past six weeks, I have met new people, made some genuinely valuable friendships, and learned so much about the environment here. . . . The program also provided me with a multitude of resources, knowledge, and tips that will keep me afloat in the coming quarters."
Kayla Schmit, English
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